[milf]

I'm just curious what most people use as far as graphics software applications. I know this is very general, but I'm most interested in those applications that can be used for producing quality web graphics (Photoshop, FireWorks, etc). I know the VERY basics of Photoshop, but I want to learn more. Are there any sites, books, tutorials, etc that you guys can recommend to assist a beginning graphics person?

[godzookie2k]

software doesn't produce quality web graphics, talent does.

[milf]

software doesn't produce quality web graphics, talent does.

I understand what you're trying to say, but I don't agree with it entirely. The most magnificant artist in the world wouldn't be able to make a quality web graphic without first understanding the software application. I know plenty of people that can paint, draw, whatever exceptionally, but give them a computer and a graphics application and it's a lost cause.

[graphics84]

I like the british rag.. Computer arts

http://www.computerarts.co.uk/

good design mag and they have had some great artist on there... the tips aren't bad and I've learnd a thing ot two...

How- sucks
Print- is ok
Comunication Arts- boring
IDN- is awesome

there ya go

[godzookie2k]

you can also know how to use photoshop inside and out and still not make a good web graphic.

You can export a jpeg from photoshop with two key..no 3 key commands.

apple option shift s (brings up save for web)
return (brings up file save dialog)
return (saves document)

[godzookie2k]

oddly enough I love How, Print and CA, and mostly dislike computer arts... go figure

[graphics84]

Originally posted by godzookie2k:
oddly enough I love How, Print and CA, and mostly dislike computer arts... go figure

to each his/her own

I'm looking for real creativity from a design mag...

I've been to the offices of Communication Arts.. it's very sterile... there where 2 creative people there the guy who knew more about the type face they use than how to zip up his own pants and the secretary that had some cool tattoos and piercings... (that was 1998 or so)

I also like

Juxtapos
Giant Robot
Vice

[arclight]

Well, if you're looking to learn the basic apps (Photoshop, Illustrator, GoLive, Dreamweaver, etc.) I recommend the Peachpit Books . They move along fast and can be quite helpful for apps like Quark or GoLive when you need a refresher on something.

As far as "quality" web graphics, do you mean well optimized? Good design doesn't come in a box but knowledge about graphic formats and when to use which type is essential for good web design edicate. GIF's and JPEG's compress differently but Photoshop alone can do a respectable job at optimizing for the web. Nothing worse than seeing a color photo on a site saved as a 200Kb GIF!

Everyone has different habits but my advice is go with what you're comfortable using and if you want to learn more grab a trial version of something and get a quickstart guide. Demos and tutorials are great but learning tricks, techniques and shortcuts come with time. Just dig around the web and you're sure to find something. If you are looking for something specific post again.